Tags: Philippine politics, Sara Duterte, Ferdinand Marcos, political tensions, security controversy
Security Detail Swap Linked to Ongoing Probes
The bodyguards of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte have been replaced following intensified investigations involving her alleged misconduct and controversial remarks. Authorities clarified that the decision to remove and replace her security team was tied to an unrelated investigation concerning an incident involving her staff.
Allegations of Interference with Police Operations
According to National Police Spokeswoman Colonel Jean Fajardo, charges have been filed against Duterte and her security personnel for alleged interference during the transfer of her detained chief of staff, Zuleika Lopez. Fajardo reported that a police doctor was allegedly pushed by Duterte’s head of security during the incident. “We cannot let this pass,” Fajardo emphasized.
Military Chief General Romeo Brawner also confirmed that soldiers assigned to Duterte’s security detail were withdrawn as part of an ongoing investigation, though further details were not disclosed.
Assassination Plot Comments Spark Outrage
Vice President Duterte has come under heavy scrutiny after making incendiary remarks regarding President Ferdinand Marcos and his family. She admitted to instructing an individual to retaliate against the President, his wife, and his cousin if an alleged plot to assassinate her succeeded. However, Duterte denied that her comments amounted to a death threat.
The justice department described Duterte as the “self-confessed mastermind” of a potential plot against Marcos. A subpoena has been issued requiring her to participate in a formal inquiry.
Collapsing Marcos-Duterte Alliance
Once united in a political alliance that secured victory in 2022, the relationship between President Marcos and Vice President Duterte has unraveled in the lead-up to the 2025 mid-term elections. The fallout intensified as Duterte faces accusations of misusing millions of dollars in government funds—a charge being investigated by the House of Representatives, led by Marcos’ cousin, Martin Romualdez.
Duterte, the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, remains the constitutional successor to Marcos should he be unable to complete his term. Both Duterte and Romualdez are expected to vie for the presidency in 2028, fueling speculation that the political rivalry is driving the escalating tension.
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